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Lauderdale County Releases Food Safety Scores

Food safety scores released in Lauderdale County highlight critical violations across several establishments.

News Summary

The latest food safety inspection scores in Lauderdale County reveal a mix of highs and lows, with several establishments facing critical violations. Inspections conducted from October 21 to October 25, 2024, uncovered serious health concerns in multiple locations, prompting community members to reconsider their dining choices. With some restaurants falling significantly below safety standards, these findings raise important questions about food safety protocols in the region.

Food Safety Scores Released for Lauderdale County

Lauderdale County’s latest health inspection scores have been released, and they come with a mix of surprises, concerns, and some critical violations that are raising eyebrows among residents. Inspections for various food and lodging establishments took place from October 21 to October 25, 2024, and the findings are worth a closer look!

What’s the Score?

These scores are based on a 100-point scale, assessed against a standard set of regulations aimed at ensuring food safety and hygiene. Unfortunately, as the inspections rolled out, several establishments were found to have significant issues. Let’s break down some of the highlights (or lowlights).

Critical Violations Spotted

First up, a number of fast food joints joined the ranks of establishments with critical violations. Here’s the rundown:

Arby’s #7205
Curtis Restaurant
Golden Corral
Subway Sandwiches and Salads
Wendy’s of Cox Creek Parkway
Good Vibe Nutrition
Hwy 55 Burgers, Shakes & Fries
Jack’s Restaurant
The Carriage
Yurr Corporation
Store N Deli

These places aren’t alone in their struggles, as we saw a few more establishments slip below the safety bar. The South End Market in DeKalb County scored a troubling 80 after inspectors found some serious health violations, including sightings of roaches in the kitchen and rodent feces. Yikes! Plus, they had no hot water, which is a must-have for cleanliness.

Where’s the Cleanliness?

In Lauderdale County, one establishment really grabbed attention for all the wrong reasons: The 306 Barbeque landed the lowest score locally, earning a disappointing 82. Among its failures? Food storage violations and general unsanitary conditions that likely left patrons cringing at the thought of dining there.

On Cloverdale Road, another familiar name, McDonald’s, found its way onto the scoresheet with an 85. While that’s not the worst score, inspectors noted issues like dirty dishes and missing timestamps on food items — all signs of less-than-ideal food handling practices.

What’s Happening Nearby?

It’s not just Lauderdale County feeling the heat; neighboring counties reported their own challenges. In Limestone County, GP Quick Stop and Tanner Chevron received scores of 84 and 85 respectively, both holding various health violations. Meanwhile, the trend continued in Madison County, where Little Libby’s Catfish shocked many with the lowest score across north Alabama of just 70. Problems included no paper towels, no hot water, and some very unsanitary food handling practices.

More Violations to Note

The Petro South Food Mart and Agave & Rye also faced food temperature issues, resulting in scores of 83 and 85. Turning to Morgan County, the Chevron station racked up a score of 81 thanks to unlabeled chemicals and signs of rodent activity. Not to be outdone, Popeye’s strode in with an 82 due to mold and food temperature tricks.

Widespread Concerns About Food Safety

As these inspection results circulate, a clear pattern emerges across food establishments in north Alabama, indicating that poor sanitation and food safety practices persistently haunt many venues. With tonight’s dinner choices weighing heavily on our minds, it’s wise to consider the latest scores before grabbing a bite.

Food safety isn’t just a restaurant’s responsibility; it’s a community effort too! As consumers, it’s our job to stay informed and make wise dining decisions. After all, health starts at our tables!